The judge ordered that Renata remain in my care while the full determination proceeded.

The adoption challenge could not advance until the claimant verified her identity.

The relevant financial records were preserved for review.

Outside the courthouse, Frank asked if I was satisfied.

“No,” I said.

“I want the court to protect my daughter, not to spare me the embarrassment of my own family.”

That evening Renata sat at the kitchen table with colored pencils.

She had drawn three people beside a house.